Getting back to nature: Eco initiatives for schools

From tree planting to bird watching, in this article, we provide an overview of eco initiatives available to help your school enhance its sustainability credentials and engage students in nature

If you want to enhance biodiversity on your school premises and involve students and staff in sustainable natural projects, there are numerous initiatives and programs across the UK that can provide free practical support and resources. Here are some of the best options to help you get started.

The woodland trust

The Woodland Trust is supporting schools in planting trees by offering a range of tree planting packages at no cost. Schools can apply for these packages, with two deliveries of trees scheduled each year: one in March and one in November. Applications for November 2024 deliveries are currently open and expected to close in August. Before applying, schools must obtain landowner permission and seek guidance from their local authority for any planting restrictions. The Trust offers various packages, including urban trees suitable for limited spaces, tree varieties that attract wildlife, and packages for growing orchards at school. Application forms can be found on the Woodland Trust website.

Eco Schools in partnership with the Bupa Foundation

Eco Schools is providing a free Healthy Summer Toolkit designed to educate children about the connection between a healthy environment and a healthy lifestyle. You can find the Healthy Summer Toolkit on the Eco Schools website, accompanied by a video introduction by footballer and influencer Kit Brown. This downloadable kit includes a Healthy Summer assembly presentation that schools can use to introduce the kit to children and staff, as well as resources for schools to initiate conversations with students and engage in activities focussing on nutrition, climate change, and managing eco-anxiety.

RSPB wild challenge

The RSPB’s Wild Challenge offers schools the opportunity to collaborate in experiencing and supporting local wildlife, while earning awards for their efforts. Participation is free, and the program offers a range of activities that lead to Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards. Wild Challenge provides an excellent framework for learning and is open to all ages and abilities. More information is available on the RSPB website, though SBLs should note that while the site undergoes an update, registration for Wild Challenge activities can be completed via email.

The Green Schools Project

Registration is now open until September for the Green Schools Project’s 2024-25 ‘Zero Carbon Schools’ initiative. By joining the program, schools gain access to a wealth of resources aimed at lowering carbon emissions. Participation is completely free, and schools will receive a package of sessions designed to teach children practical and positive ways to address the climate crisis, including two staff CPD sessions. Additionally, schools will receive support on how to calculate their current carbon footprint. The Green Schools Project will be hosting taster sessions for senior leaders, teachers, academy trust staff, and local authorities to learn more about Zero Carbon Schools and its benefits. The next session is scheduled for Tuesday, 2nd July and can be booked via their website.

These are just a few of the available programs and initiatives that SBLs might want to consider, but there are plenty more out there! A good starting point is to explore the UKSSN, which can guide schools to various projects and organizations that support improving eco-prowess and aiding the local environment. Afterall, whether you’re a nature whizz or just starting out on the journey, we’d all like to live and learn in a greener world!